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- $Unique_ID{BRK00594}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{Antibiotic Treatment During Pregnancy}
- $Subject{bladder cystitis pregnancy Childbirth Genitourinary Infections
- urinary tract infection kidney kidneys pyelonephritis Penicillins
- cephalosporins erythromycin sulfonamides nitrofurantoin metronidazole
- aminoglycosides isoniazid tetracycline chloramphenicol}
- $Volume{K-16}
- $Log{
- Types of Urinary Tract Infections*0007101.scf
- Predisposing Factors for Urinary Tract Infections*0007102.scf}
-
- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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-
- Antibiotic Treatment During Pregnancy
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-
- QUESTION: During a regular check up for my pregnancy, my doctor discovered
- bacteria in my urine. Though I have no symptoms, my physician claims that it
- must be treated and wants to use an antibiotic. I am against all medicining
- during the time I am carrying the baby, and feel he is being over cautious.
- May I have your opinion, please?
-
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-
- ANSWER: Your point of view that resists medications of any kind during early
- pregnancy is a fine one, and I wish more mothers-to-be understood the
- principles. However, your physician is aware of the dangers of urinary
- infection to both you and your baby, and is not merely playing it safe but is
- most wise in his advice to you. During your pregnancy your body undergoes
- many changes, including alterations in both the structure and function of your
- urinary system. Urinary tract infections can be far more dangerous now than
- under other conditions, and can lead to a condition called pyelonephritis
- which is one of the most frequent reasons that pregnant women require hospital
- care. Though you may have no symptoms now, if left untreated, symptoms can
- develop 30 to 40% of the time. Your physician has a wide choice of
- medications that can be used. Penicillins, cephalosporins and erythromycin
- type medications are considered safe. Others, such as sulfonamides,
- nitrofurantoin, metronidazole, aminoglycosides and isoniazid may be used with
- caution. I doubt that your doctor will chose a tetracycline or
- chloramphenicol, which are contraindicated for you. His choice will depend
- upon the type of infection you have as well as your own sensitivities,
- tolerance to the medication, and any possible allergies to medications.
- Though you are to be complimented on your caution, this is one time when your
- physician's advice is right in line with the best of current medical practice
- for situations such as yours, and should be carefully followed.
-
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-
- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
-